COLMAR, Pa. — Dorman Products has announced that Mathias Barton has been appointed to serve as the company’s CEO. Barton succeeds Steven Berman, who has assumed the role of executive chairman. The appointments of Barton as CEO and Berman as executive chairman represent the next step in the company’s long-term succession plan.
In connection with Berman’s appointment as executive chairman, Paul Lederer, the company’s lead director, said, “Under Steven’s leadership, the company has become a major force in the automotive aftermarket. We are pleased that such an impactful industry leader as Steven will continue to serve the company as its executive chairman.”
Berman added, “I am thrilled to have this opportunity to continue contributing to the company’s growth. I intend to devote most of my time as executive chairman to strategic planning initiatives and identifying target acquisitions. This change represents the next step in our succession planning process.”
Berman co-founded the company along with his late brother Richard Berman. Berman became chairman and CEO in January 2011. He previously held the positions of president of the company from Oct. 24, 2007 to Jan. 30, 2011. Prior to Oct. 24, 2007, he served as executive vice president of the company since its inception in 1978. Berman also has served on the company’s board of directors and as secretary and treasurer of the company since its inception in 1978.
Commenting on Barton’s appointment as CEO, Berman said, “Matt has been hand-picked by the board to succeed me as CEO and we are elated to have him. Matt’s leadership and industry insight has been instrumental in our growth. He has the management experience, passion and drive to lead the company going forward.”
Barton currently serves on the company’s board of directors and as the company’s president, a position he has held since August 2013. Barton joined the company in November 1999 as senior vice president, chief financial officer (CFO) and served in that capacity until February 2011, when he was appointed as the company’s co-president. Prior to joining the company, Barton served as senior vice president and CFO of Central Sprinkler Corp., a manufacturer and distributor of automatic fire sprinklers, valves and component parts. From May 1989 to September 1998, he was employed by Rapidforms Inc., most recently as executive vice president and CFO.
